TacticalMedicineManual July6

POST2009EXE- 0390
O perational P rograms
and
S tandardized T raining R ecommendations
C a l i f o r n i a P O S T — i n c o l l a b o r at i o n w i t h —
Emergency Medical Ser vices Authority
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TACTICAL
California POST
MEDICINE
O perational P rograms
and
S tandardized
T raining R ecommendations
produced in
c o l l a b o r at i o n w i t h
Emergency Medical Services Authority
POST2009EXE- 0390
Copyright
n ��Tactical Medicine
Operational Programs and Standardized Training Recommendations
Copyright 2009
California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)
Published July 2009
All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part,
in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical or by any information
storage and retrieval system now known or hereafter invented, without prior
written permission of the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and
Training (POST), with the following exception:
California law enforcement agencies in the POST peace officer program and POST-
certified training presenters are hereby given permission by POST to reproduce any
or all of the contents of this manual for internal use within their agency/school.
All other individuals, private businesses and corporations, public and private
agencies and colleges, professional associations, and non-POST law enforcement
agencies in-state or out-of-state, may print or download this publication for non-
commercial use.
Infringement of the copyright protection law and the provisions expressed here
and on the POST website under Copyright/Trademark Protection will be pursued
in a court of law. Questions about this copyright information or about obtaining
permission to use POST-developed publications may be addressed to:
POST Publications Manager

Mail: 1601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95816-7083
Phone: 916 227-3891
Email: Publications.Manager@post.ca.gov
Cover and publication designed and produced by

POST Graphic Design Unit
Photos courtesy of ISTM
POST2009EXE-0390
tactical medicine
The Mission
n ��of the California Commission On Peace Officer Standards and Training
(POST) is to continually enhance the professionalism of California Law
Enforcement in serving its communities.
n ��of the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) is to ensure quality

patient care by administering an effective statewide system of coordinated
emergency medical care, injury prevention, and disaster medical response. The
EMS Authority is also responsible for leadership in developing and implementing
EMSA systems throughout California and setting standards for the training and
scope of practice of various levels of EMSA personnel.
POST and EMSA i

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tactical medicine
Commissioners
n �� Michael Sobek Sergeant
Chair San Leandro Police Department
Robert T. Doyle Sheriff
Vice-Chair Marin County Sheriff’s Department
Anthony W. Batts Chief
Long Beach Police Department
Lai Lai Bui Sergeant
Sacramento Police Department
Collene Campbell Public Member
Bonnie Dumanis District Attorney
San Diego County
Floyd Hayhurst Deputy Sheriff
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Deborah Linden Chief
San Luis Obispo Police Department
Ronald Lowenberg Director
Golden West Criminal Justice Training Center
Jeffrey Lundgren Deputy Sheriff
Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
Henry T. Perea Councilman
City of Fresno
Laurie Smith Sheriff
Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department
Gil Van Attenhoven Senior Special Agent
Department of Justice
George Anderson Director (representing the Attorney General)
Division of Law Enforcment, Department of Justice
Jerry Brown Attorney General, Ex Officio Member
Department of Justice
Paul A. Cappitelli Executive Director, POST
POST and EMSA iii

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tactical medicine
Acknowledgments
n �� This guideline manual for Tactical Medicine Operational Programs and
Standardized Training Recommendations could not have been developed
without the combined efforts of a number of dedicated individuals and interested
parties.
POST and the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) would like to
extend its gratitude to the law enforcement and emergency medical service
professionals who gave of their time and expertise to contribute to the success of
this project.
Representatives of the following stakeholder groups participated in this project:
n California Ambulance Association (CAA)

n California Association of Tactical Officers (CATO)
n California Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA)
n California Fire Chiefs’ Association (CFCA)
n California Highway Patrol (CHP)
n Emergency Medical Directors’ Association of California (EDMAC)
n Emergency Medical Services Administrators’ Association (EMSAAC)
n Huntington Beach Police Department
n Illinois Department of Public Health – Tactical EMS Committee
n Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
n Palm Springs Police Department
n San Diego Police Department
n San Francisco Police Department
POST Project Manager:

n Kenneth L. Whitman, Special Consultant
n Homeland Security Training Program
EMSA Project Manager:

n Daniel R. Smiley, Chief Deputy Director
n Executive Office
POST and EMSA v

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tactical medicine
Foreword
n ��The tactical incident response environment presents unique challenges to law
enforcement personnel and for the personnel providing emergency medical care and
support services in that environment. Tactical medical care providers must have a
clear understanding of and consideration for law enforcement response and tactics
and the mission-specific objectives of a tactical operation when planning for and
providing medical support. The primary goal of tactical medicine is to support and
assist a tactical team in accomplishing its mission during a deployment or response
to a critical incident.
Penal Code Section 13514.1 directs the Commission to develop and disseminate
guidelines and standardized training recommendations for law enforcement officers,
supervisors, and administrators, who are assigned to perform, supervise, or manage
Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). Those guidelines were released in 2005.
Significant progress, growth, and advancement in tactical medicine training

and education have occurred over the last two decades and this has resulted in
the development of specific training programs for tactical medicine providers
and operators. The Tactical Medicine Guidelines for Operational Programs and
Standardized Training address critical legal and practical issues of the tactical
medicine component of SWAT operations identified in the POST SWAT Guidelines.
Additionally, the State of California Emergency Medical Services Authority

(EMSA) provides the state oversight and regulation to the provision of emergency
medical care and EMS training. The partnership between POST and EMSA in
the development of the Tactical Medicine Operational Programs and Standardized
Training Recommendations manual provides an essential linkage between
the critical nature of law enforcement and emergency medical care. These
recommendations reflect contemporary thinking and were jointly developed by
POST, EMSA, and dedicated law enforcement and medical professionals statewide.
Questions concerning the core competencies and training recommendations may be

directed to Special Consultant Ken Whitman at (916) 227-5561 or by email to
Ken.Whitman@post.ca.gov. Questions pertaining to medical certifications and
training requirements may be directed to EMSA at (916) 322-4336.
PAUL A. CAPPITELLI r. steven tharratt, md, mpvm

Executive Director Director
POST EMSA
POST and EMSA vii

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tactical medicine
Contents
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
SECTIONS
1.0 Definition of Tactical Medicine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.0 Tactical Medicine Operational Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3.0 Tactical Medical Planning and Threat Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.0 Tactical Medicine Operational Equipment Recommendations . . . . . . 13
5.0 Tactical Medicine Training Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6.0 Tactical Medicine Required Course Content Description . . . . . . . . 27
7.0 Tactical Medicine Clinical Core Competencies – Psychomotor . . . . . 51
8.0 Tactical Medicine Scenarios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.0 Tactical Medicine Final Competency Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
10.0 Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model . . . . . . . . 61
CHARTS, TABLES, AND FORMS

Defining Tactical Medicne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Equipment Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Required Course Topics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Tactical Medicine Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model –
Conditions and Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Tactical Medical Scenario Evaluation Form – SAMPLE ONLY . . . . . . . . . 50
Tactical Casualty Cae Assessment and Treatment Model –
Phases I, II, and III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
APPENDICES
A Authorized Scope of Practice for EMS Personnel Reference . . . . . . . 67
B EMS Legal Authorities for EMS Personnel Reference . . . . . . . . . . 71
POST and EMSA ix

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Introduction
n �� This guide is designed to provide baseline development and implementation standards
for Tactical Medicine programs developed as required by POST and described in the
SWAT Guidelines approved in 2005. The California Emergency Medical Services
Authority (EMSA) is responsible for setting the statewide medical standards utilized
by POST. As such, this guide is intended to serve as a template for operational
programs that are developed by any public safety agency in California, and to serve
as the minimum standard for initial tactical medicine training. The POST SWAT
Operational Guidelines and Standardized Training Recommendations (2005)
identified the need for tactical medicine as an integral part of the law enforcement
tactical team. Under Chapter 5, Planning, the guidelines state:
5.5 SWAT teams should incorporate medical emergency contingency planning

as part of the SWAT operational plan.
► Where resources allow, consideration should be given to integrating
Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) personnel within the
structure of the SWAT team.
POST and EMSA 1

Introduction
Additionally, a Basic SWAT Team Operational Component has been identified as

“medical support” under the Command and Control Element in the guidelines.
n �� This guide is also meant to serve as a companion document to the POST SWAT
Operational Guidelines and Standardized Training Recommendations (2005).
It describes the critical role that tactical medical planning and threat assessment
plays in the overall contingency planning as part of the SWAT operational plan.
n �� The public safety agency developing a tactical medicine operational program
should conduct a needs assessment to determine the level of emergency
care required by the SWAT team to support the mission and operations. The
operational program should address medical oversight and coordination with the
local EMS agency, medical direction, use of Emergency Medical Technicians
(EMTs), paramedics and other advanced life support personnel, and minimum
training and equipment standards.
n �� The agency should develop policies and procedures for medical support during
tactical operations. The assignment and/or deployment of any emergency medical
support personnel during a tactical response shall be at the sole discretion of the
agency or department in accordance with established policies and operational
procedures.
n �� Legal authority and proper training to carry a firearm is a prerequisite to arming
emergency medical support personnel. Armed medical support personnel must
have statutory authority to carry a firearm and should be trained and tested to the
standard for law enforcement personnel.
n �� Approved tactical medicine training programs, which provide initial and refresher
or update tactical medicine training to personnel, shall adhere to the training
guidelines and standards outlined in this document. The goal of this guidelines
manual is to describe minimum core competencies and define the written and
skills testing necessary to achieve the standards prescribed by POST and EMSA.
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1.0 Definition of Tactical Medicine

Tactical Medicine: Defined as the delivery of medical services for law
enforcement special operations.
1.1 �� A comprehensive Tactical Medicine Operational Program that is developed by a

law enforcement agency should have the following seven components as part of its
planning, operations, and evaluation process:
1) Medical Oversight
2) Medical Contingency Planning
3) Operational Support/Tactical Emergency Support (TEMS)
4) Quality Improvement
5) Team Health Management
6) Training and Education
7) Medical Equipment Acquisition and Maintenance
POST and EMSA 3

1. Definition of Tactical Medicine
1
Medical
Oversight
7 2
Medical Equipment Medical
Acquisition & Contingency
Maintenance Planning
Tactical
6 Medicine 3
Training Operational
& Education Support / TEMS
5 4
Team Health Quality
Management Improvement
1.2 �� Tactical Medicine operational programs should be developed to ensure that all
components are developed to a level that allows for full integration within the
SWAT operational program.
1.3 �� Identification of personnel to lead, manage, and coordinate a tactical medicine
operational program are required. Additionally, trained Tactical Emergency
Medical Support (TEMS) personnel to provide operational support are necessary.
Overall, strong medical leadership should be incorporated within the operational
program.
1.4 �� Operational tactical medical support programs also provide a necessary and
significant linkage between law enforcement personnel and EMS services during
dangerous or sustained operations.
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Tactical Medicine
2.0 Operational Programs
POST and EMSA recommendations specific to operational programs for tactical
medicine are outlined below.
2.1 �� Tactical Medicine Programs

(a) A law enforcement agency with a tactical medicine program should establish
policies and procedures for the planning, training, operation, and evaluation of its
program. These policies and procedures shall address the minimum tactical medicine
components described in these guidelines.
(b) A law enforcement agency with a tactical medicine program should:
(1) Provide tactical emergency medical services, as necessary, to the law

enforcement agency on a continuous twenty-four hours per day basis, unless
otherwise determined jointly by the local EMS agency and the law enforcement
agency, in which case there shall be adequate justification for the exemption.
POST and EMSA 5

2. Tactical Medicine Operational Programs
(2) Utilize and maintain telecommunications, including communications with

base hospitals, when appropriate and in accordance with local policies and
procedures.
(3) Maintain a minimum equipment and supply list, a drug and solution
inventory, and the equipment and supplies commensurate with the authorized
scope of practice of the tactical emergency medical personnel.
(4) Must comply with all applicable Federal and State regulations and local
medical policies and procedures.
(5) Be responsible for assessing the current knowledge of their tactical

emergency medical services personnel in local policies, procedures, and
protocols, and for skills competency.
(c) An agency establishing a tactical medicine program should develop and

establish a written tactical medical policy concerning their personnel,
to include but not be limited to:
(1) Tactical medical training required of medical support personnel, utilizing a

POST-certified and EMSA-approved Tactical Medicine course or its equivalent.
(2) Level of medical licensure or certification required by individual tactical

medical personnel
(3) Any additional medical training requirements as required by law or agency

policy
(4) Deployment of tactical medical personnel pursuant to agency policy and

protocols
(5) Determination of peace officer status of tactical medical personnel
(6) Arming of tactical medical personnel
(d) No law enforcement agency shall advertise itself as providing tactical medicine
services unless it does, in fact, routinely provide these services as part of a tactical
medicine operational program that meets the minimum requirements of these
guidelines.
(e) No responding tactical unit shall advertise itself as providing paramedic

services unless it does, in fact, provide these services and meets the requirements of
subsection (a) of this section.
(f) Tactical Medicine programs and their medical personnel shall be integrated
into the local EMS system, in coordination with the local Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) Agency.
(g) Tactical Medicine operational programs should designate the following

personnel:
(1) Tactical Medicine Program Director
At a minimum each tactical medicine program should have a program director

that has tactical medicine training, as defined within the POST and EMSA core
competencies guidelines.
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(2) Tactical Medicine Medical Director
A Tactical Medicine program should have a Medical Director, who shall be

a physician currently licensed in California, to provide medical direction,
continuous quality improvement, medical oversight, and act as a resource for
medical contingency planning, when necessary. The Medical Director shall have
sufficient knowledge of tactical medicine to oversee the program and may also
serve as the program director.
(3) Personnel Trained in Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS)
At a minimum, all personnel who are tactical medical providers should have
certification at the basic life support level. Optimally, tactical medical programs
should utilize personnel licensed or certified at the advanced life support level.
This may include any combination of physicians, mid-level providers, registered
nurses, paramedics, and Advanced EMT/EMT-IIs operating under their authorized
scope of practice. See Appendix A for scope of practice. All personnel must have
tactical medical training, as defined within the POST and EMSA guidelines.
(h) Agencies should develop policies regarding the use of firearms by tactical
medical personnel. It is a desirable goal to enable each tactical and medical officer
to safely function as a team member. It is recognized that liability concerns are a
challenging issue, and each department should evaluate their needs individually.
Legal authority and proper training to carry a firearm is a prerequisite to arming

emergency medical support personnel. Armed medical support personnel must
have statutory authority to carry a firearm and should be trained and tested to the
standard for law enforcement personnel.
2.2 �� Tactical Medicine Contingency Planning

Each Tactical Medicine Operational Program that is developed by a law
enforcement agency should have the following seven components as part of its
planning, operations, and evaluation process.
2.2.1 ��Medical Oversight. Medical oversight refers to advice and direction provided
by the program director and/or the Medical Director to trained tactical medical
personnel who provide medical care in all aspects of tactical operations.
2.2.2 ��Medical Contingency Planning. Medical Contingency Planning is the

inclusion of medical personnel in pre-event planning and preparation. Tactical
medical personnel should participate in the development phase of mission
planning and risk assessment to ensure appropriate assets are in place for the
identified mission parameters.
Considerations should include appropriate resources and trained medical
personnel, and may include, but are not limited to ground ambulance standby, air
ambulance availability, and transport to specialized hospital facilities, including
trauma centers.
POST and EMSA 7

2. Tactical Medicine Operational Programs
2.2.3 ��Operational Support (TEMS). TEMS refers to Tactical Emergency Medical

Support, which is the operational support component of the discipline of Tactical
Medicine. If available, tactically trained medical personnel should be deployed
and/or assigned and utilized during SWAT operations.
The deployment and/or assignment of any emergency medical support personnel
during a tactical response shall be at the sole discretion of the agency or
department in accordance with established policies and operational procedures.
This operational unit is a designated group of medical personnel, preferably at the
advanced life support level, specifically selected, tactically trained, and equipped to
provide medical care during critical law enforcement incidents and planned events.
2.2.4 ��Quality Improvement and Post Incident Analysis. Quality improvement is

the ongoing and active review of medical involvement in tactical operations for the
purpose of improved patient care and operational outcomes. The Medical Director
provides continuous quality improvement oversight. Tactical medical personnel,
if deployed, should participate in post-incident analysis and debriefings.
Appropriate documentation of patient contact must be completed in accordance
with State regulations and local policies.
2.2.5 ��Team Health Management. Team health management is a critical component

of operational effectiveness. The tactical medic can be a health advocate and
make recommendations for physical conditioning, diet, mental health, and
preventive care. A physician, mid-level provider, or paramedic can be a resource
as a component of the tactical medicine program to enhance the total well being
of the SWAT team members.
2.2.6 ��Training, Education, and Sustainability. Tactical medical team support

personnel shall be deployed and/or assigned to a SWAT team only after
successful completion of a POST-certified and EMSA-approved Tactical Medicine
Course, or its equivalent as determined by the agency. Appropriate training,
prior to full deployment, should also be incorporated into agency policy and
procedures.
Tactical Medicine team personnel should participate in documented and
verifiable scheduled training to maintain individual and team core competencies
as determined by the agency to support the overall SWAT team missions and
operations performed. Ongoing training in the respective tactical medicine core
competencies should also be incorporated into agency policy and procedures.
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Tactical Medicine recurrent Core Competencies fall within three general categories:
n Maintaining skill proficiencies and professional licensures/certifications
n Use of Medical Equipment and Applications
n Medical care decision-making in a tactical environment
Tactical medicine personnel and supervisors, managers, and directors should

attend 24 hours of POST-certified or EMSA-approved regular update or refresher
tactical medicine training, or its equivalent as determined by the agency, which
are specific to the core competencies, every two years. Refresher training can
be achieved through continuing education or an approved refresher course in
accordance with standards incorporated into agency policy and procedures.
The Tactical Medicine program should include training to non-medical team
members in basic medical care procedures in a tactical environment. All tactical
medical personnel shall maintain state licensure or certification and local
accreditation as appropriate for skill level of the individual.
2.2.7 ��Medical Equipment Acquisition and Maintenance. Tactical medical

providers should be adequately equipped to meet the specific mission identified
by the agency. The tactical medical provider should be equipped with the
necessary basic and advanced medical supplies and equipment for their level of
licensure or certification.
Medical equipment used by the tactical medical providers should be agency-
issued and approved by the program director and/or Medical Director, including
any modifications, additions, or attachments.
Equipment should be maintained regularly to ensure it is in good working order
prior to deployment. This should include regular checks of inventory as well as
its functionality. Expiration dates of supplies, including medications, should be
checked regularly.
Each operational tactical medicine program should establish a standardized list
of medical equipment and supplies for each level of team member to include:
n Individual Tactical Team Member
n TEMS, Basic Life Support (BLS)
n TEMS, Advanced Life Support (ALS)
POST and EMSA 9

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Tactical Medical Planning

3.0 and Threat Assessment
3.1 �� Medical Plan Initiation
Agencies should initiate a medical plan based on the operational mission. As the
overall tactical mission is being identified the tactical medical support personnel
should begin the process of assembling a medical plan that can be integrated into
the overall tactical plan.
3.2 �� Medical Plan as a Resource

The medical plan is an integral part of the tactical operation and is an effective
resource during any response to a critical incident. Medical support plans should
be developed before any medical support personnel arrive at an incident and
should involve consultation with the tactical operation chain of command. The
medical plan includes medical intelligence, tactical medical logistics, medical
POST and EMSA 11

3. Tactical Medical Planning and Threat Assessment
resources, and coordination at all levels with the overall operational mission and
response plan.
3.3 �� Medical Threat Assessment

A medical threat assessment should be conducted based on intelligence that
has been gathered or identified and on the nature of the response or tactical
operational needs. Intelligence gathered should be evaluated for potential medical
issues as part of the overall medical threat assessment.
3.4 �� Incorporation of Medical Threat Assessment

The medical threat assessment should be incorporated, either formally or
informally, into the overall tactical plan being used for the specific mission. When
integrated into the overall tactical plan, the medical threat assessment and the
medical support personnel can be a significant resource that supports the Tactical
Operations Commander who is ultimately responsible for resolving the incident in
a safe and professional manner.
3.5 �� Medical Plan for Each Response

The Medical Plan should be one of the elements that are identified and
considered for each response to a critical incident. While everything cannot
be pre-planned, proper pre-planning and training plays an important and
critical role in being able to provide an effective resource that contributes to the
successful resolution to any critical incident response.
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Tactical Medicine Operational

4.0 Equipment Recommendations
The medical director, in conjunction with the local EMS agency, should determine
appropriate medications, supplies, and equipment. Decisions should be based
upon the level of personnel and their appropriate scope of practice. POST and
EMSA do not endorse any specific products or brands.
The lists on the following pages identify the applicable items for each type of
tactical emergency teams.
POST and EMSA 13

4. Tactical Medicine Operational Equipment Recommendations
4.1 �� Individual Tactical Team Member

Each individual on a team should have the following minimum equipment
carried, or readily accessible, by the individual operator.
Individual Team Member

Quantity Type of Equipment
1 Medical Bag
1 Airway (nasopharyngeal, 28f size with water-based lubricant)
1 Chest Seal
1 CoTCCC-Recommended Tourniquet System
1 Emergency Trauma Dressing
2 Gauze (compressed, vacuum-sealed)
6 Gloves (trauma, latex-free, 3 pair)
1 N95 Mask (PPE Kit)
4.2 �� TEMS – Basic Life Support

Basic Life Support Personnel (at the Emergency Medical Technician level) should
have all items included in the Basic Life Support Equipment Recommendations
available.
Basic (EMR and EMT)

1 Medical Bag
2 AED Patches
2 Airway (nasopharyngeal, 28f size with water-based lubricant)
1 Bag-Valve Mask (collapsible)
1 Blanket (self-heating or self-warming)
1 Cap (hypothermia prevention)
2 Chest Seal
1 Compact AED (immediately available, waveform display preferred)
2 CoTCCC-Recommended Tourniquet System
2 Dressing (sterile, large absorbent roller-type)

2 Elastic Compression Bandage
2 Emergency Trauma Dressing
4 Gauze (compressed, vacuum-sealed)
continues
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Basic (EMR and EMT) continued

2 Gauze (petroleum, 3” x 18”)
10 Gloves (trauma, latex-free, 5 pair)
1 Light (tactical exam — consider helmet-mounted and handheld)
1 Litter (evacuation, tactical, or soft litter)
1 N95 mask (PPE Kit)
1 Protective Eyewear (wraparound, ballistic grade)
1 Rescue Blanket (disposable — consider thermal reflective material)
1 Shears (trauma)
2 Splint (semi-rigid, moldable)
1 Stethoscope and blood pressure cuff
1 Suction (hand-held)
1 Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Card
1 TacMed BLS Equipment Pack Inventory Sheet
1 Tape (surgical, adhesive, 2”)
6 Triage Tags
4.3 �� TEMS – Advanced Life Support

Advanced Life Support Personnel should have available all items included in the
Basic Life Support Equipment Recommendations, plus those listed in the ALS
recommendations.
Advanced (Paramedic and Physician)

1 Airway (perilaryngeal/supraglottic, size 4 King LT or 37F combitube)
1 Bougie (flexible intubation guide)
2 Endotracheal Tube with Stylette (8 mm cuffed)
1 End Tidal CO2 Detector (colormetric)
1 ETT Restraint
1 ETT Verification Device
1 Intraosseous Device (adult and pediatric)

2 ea Intravenous Access Catheter (size 14-20)
2 Hemostatic Agent (may be considered)
continues
POST and EMSA 15

4. Tactical Medicine Operational Equipment Recommendations
Advanced (Paramedic and Physician) continued

2 IV Constriction Band
2 IV Fluid x 500 ml with IV tubing (normal saline)
2 IV Start Kits (or necessary components)
1 Laryngoscope Kit
2 Lock (IV, saline, tactical)
1 Needle Cricothyroidotomy Kit
2 Needle Decompression Kit (3.25” needle)
4 Pre-Hospital Field Forms
1 Pulse Oximeter (may be considered)
1 Saline Flush (50 ml)
1 Surgical Cricothyroidotomy Kit
2 Syringe (10 cc)
1 TacMed ALS Equipment Pack Inventory Sheet
Advanced Level Pharmaceuticals

Quantity Type of Drug
1 Acetaminophen (Tylenol, 1 bottle)
1 Aerosolized Beta 2 Specific Bronchodilator (i.e., Albuterol MDI)
1 Aspirin (chewable, 80 mg, 1 bottle)
2 Atropine Sulfate (1 mg)
1 Dextrose 50% (25 G, pre-load)
1 Diphenhydramine (50 mg)
1 Epinephrine (1:1000 1 mg)
1 Epinephrine for Injection (1:10,000 1 mg)
1 Glucagon (1 mg/unit)
1 Midazolam (Versed, 20 mg) or Diazepam (Valium, 20 mg)
2 Morphine Sulfate (10 mg/ml)
1 Naloxone (2 mg)
2 Nerve Agent Antidote Auto-Injector (Mark I)
1 Nitroglycerine (1/150 gr)
1 Ondansetron (4 mg)
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5.0 Tactical Medicine Training Programs

POST and EMSA recommendations specific to operational programs for tactical
medicine are outlined below.
5.1 �� Approved Tactical Medicine Training Programs

(a) The purpose of a Tactical Medicine training program shall be to prepare
individuals to render prehospital basic life support and advanced life support at the
scene of an emergency, under tactical law enforcement conditions, at the level their
licensure or certification allows.
(b) Tactical medicine training may be offered only by training programs that are
pre-approved and certified by POST and Cal EMSA. Eligibility for program approval
shall be limited to:
(1) Accredited universities and colleges including junior and community

colleges, and school districts,
(2) Medical training units of a branch of the Armed Forces, including the Coast
Guard of the United States,
POST and EMSA 17

5. Tactical Medicine Training Programs
(3) Law enforcement agencies in California,
(4) Agencies of government, including public safety agencies,
(5) Private training programs, when affiliated with a law enforcement or public
safety agency,
(6) Local EMS agencies.
5.2 �� Procedure for Training Course Approval

The following POST regulations address procedures for training course approval:
(a) Eligible training presenters may submit a Course Certification Program request
for Tactical Medicine program approval to POST pursuant to Regulation 1005 (f) and
Commission Procedures D-2 and D-6. The Course Certification Package must be
submitted electronically using the POST Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system.
(b) POST shall review and approve the following prior to approving a tactical
medicine training course:
(1) A statement verifying usage of a POST and EMSA standardized curriculum

which includes learning objectives, skills protocols, and treatment guidelines,
(2) Samples of any written and skills examinations used for periodic testing,
(3) A final skills competency examination,
(4) A final tactical medical scenario examination,
(5) A final written examination.
(6) The name and qualifications of the program director, program clinical
coordinator, tactical coordinator, and principal instructor(s),
(10) The location at which the courses are to be offered and their proposed
dates,
(11) Table of contents listing the required information listed in this subsection,
with corresponding page numbers,
(12) Instructor resumes showing experience and qualifications to instruct in

either the tactical or medical portion of the course as required by POST and
EMSA regulations or procedures.
(c) In addition to those items listed in subdivision (b) of this section, POST and the
EMS Authority shall assure that a training course meets the following criteria in order
to approve that agency as qualified to conduct a tactical medicine training program:
(A) POST and EMSA shall ensure that a training program designates a liaison
to local EMS agency for the county in which the training is conducted; and
(B) Consult with the local EMS agency for the county in which the training is
located if the program is developing an EMS system orientation portion of the
tactical medicine course.
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tactical medicine
(C) Course contains all topical areas as required in POST regulations and
procedures.
(D) Course contains an approved safety policy as required in POST regulations

and procedures.
(E) Submission of a list of supplies, equipment, and materials sufficient to

conduct a training program to ensure that training objectives can be met.
A sample training program equipment list is available on the POST website.
5.3 �� Program Approval

(a) In accordance with Section 5.2 (a) POST, in collaboration with the EMS
Authority, shall notify the training presenter submitting its request for training course
approval that:
(1) The request has been received,
(2) The request contains or does not contain the information required in
Section 5.2 of this Chapter and POST Regulations 1005(f) and 1084,
(3) What information, if any, is missing from the request.
(b) Course approval or disapproval shall be made in writing by POST to the

requesting training program within 60 days after receipt of all required documentation.
(c) POST shall establish the effective date of course approval in writing upon
the satisfactory documentation of compliance with all program requirements. No
retroactive certifications will be approved.
(d) Course approval shall be for one (1) year following the effective date of program
approval and may be renewed annually subject to the procedures for program
approval specified in this section.
5.4 �� Instructional Staff

Each tactical medicine training program shall provide for the functions of
administrative direction, medical quality coordination, tactical coordination and
instruction, and actual program instruction. Nothing in this section precludes the same
individual from being responsible for more than one of the following functions if so
qualified by the provisions of this section:
(a) Each tactical medicine training course shall have a program director
who shall be qualified by education and experience in methods, materials, and
evaluation of instruction.
(b) Duties of the course director, in coordination with the course clinical
coordinator and tactical coordinator, shall include but not be limited to:
(1) Administering the training program and course.
(2) Developing course content pursuant to POST and EMSA regulations and
procedures.
POST and EMSA 19

(3) Developing all written examinations and the final skills examination.
(4) Coordinating all clinical and field activities related to the course.
(5) Approving the principal instructor(s) and teaching assistants.
(6) Signing all course completion records.
(7) Assuring that all aspects of the tactical medicine training program are in
compliance with these guidelines and other related laws.
(8) Maintaining records in accordance with federal, state, and local

regulations.
(c) Each training course shall have an approved program clinical coordinator who
shall be either a physician, registered nurse, physician assistant, or a paramedic
currently licensed in California, and who should have two (2) years of academic or
clinical experience in emergency medicine or prehospital care in the last five (5) years.
Duties of the program clinical coordinator shall include, but not be limited to:
(1) Responsibility for the overall quality of medical content of the course;
(2) Approval of the qualifications of the principal instructor(s) and teaching

assistant(s) pursuant to POST and EMSA regulations and procedures.
(d) Each training course shall have an approved tactical coordinator who shall have
experience and education in law enforcement special operations, and who should have
two (2) years of academic or law enforcement experience in the last five (5) years.
Duties of the course tactical coordinator shall include, but not be limited to:
(1) Responsibility for the overall quality of tactical content of the course;
(2) Approval of the qualifications of the principal instructor(s) and teaching

assistant(s) pursuant to POST and EMSA regulations and procedures.
(e) Each training course shall have a principal instructor(s), who may also be the
program clinical coordinator, program tactical coordinator, or program director, who
shall be qualified by education and experience in methods, materials, and evaluation
of instruction in medical or tactical topics.
(1) Principal instructors should complete an instructor development course

pursuant to POST regulations and procedures.
(f) Each training course may have teaching assistant(s) who shall be qualified by
training and experience to assist with teaching of the course and shall be approved by
the program director in coordination with the program clinical coordinator or tactical
coordinator as qualified to assist in teaching the topics to which the assistant is to be
assigned.
20
tactical medicine
5.5 �� Didactic and Skills Laboratory

A certified and approved tactical medicine training course shall assure that no more
than six (6) students are assigned to one (1) principal instructor/teaching assistant
during skills practice/laboratory sessions or as required by POST Course Safety Policy.
5.6 �� Course Review and Reporting

(a) All course materials specified in this Chapter shall be subject to periodic review
by POST and the EMS Authority. EMSA shall coordinate course approval and review
with the local EMS Agency.
(b) All course presentations shall be subject to periodic on-site evaluation by POST
and the EMS Authority.
(c) Any person or agency conducting a tactical medicine training course shall
notify POST, in advance when possible, and in all cases within thirty (30) days of, any
proposed changes in course content, hours of instruction, program director, program
clinical coordinator, tactical coordinator, and instructors. No presenter is authorized
to modify or revise any part of the course without prior written approval by POST and
EMSA. This request shall be submitted electronically through the POST EDI system.
5.7 �� Withdrawal of Course Approval

Noncompliance with any criterion required for course approval, use of any unqualified
teaching personnel, or noncompliance with any other applicable provisions of
POST Regulations or Procedures may result in suspension or revocation of course
certification by POST.
5.8 �� Components of an Approved Course

(a) An approved tactical medicine training course shall consist of all of the following:
(1) An expanded course outline and hourly distribution schedule;
(2) The training course, including psychomotor skills and tactical medical
scenario experience;
(3) Periodic and a final written and skill competency examinations;
(4) Tactical Medical Scenario examinations; and
(5) A written Course Safety Policy.
(6) Course budget.
(7) Instructor resumes.
(b) POST may approve a training program that offers only refresher or update
course(s) through the POST Course Certification process.
POST and EMSA 21

5.9 �� Required Course Hours

(a) The initial tactical medicine course shall consist of not less than eighty (80)
hours. These training hours shall be divided into:
(1) A minimum of 35 hours of didactic instruction and skills laboratory;
(2) A minimum of 16 hours of tactical weapons instruction, demonstration,

and
(3) A minimum of 12 hours of simulated tactical medicine scenario practice,

including force-on-force. The tactical medicine scenario simulations shall include
twenty-four patient contacts wherein a patient assessment and other tactical
medicine skills are performed.
(4) A minimum of 9 hours of scenario-based reality training.
(5) A minimum of 8 hours of competency evaluation and testing. The minimum

hours include a final examination for tactical medicine certification.
(b) As an alternative to the full initial course, an alternative initial tactical medical
course, consisting of no less than forty (40) hours, may be approved and certified by
POST and EMSA, when that course admits only students that are all pre-qualified, and
have all of the following prerequisites:
(1) Current peace officers or other designated public safety personnel,
(2) Hold minimum certification of EMT-1 or higher,
(3) Completed required WMD training, including medical care for WMD, and
(4) Completed a POST-approved Basic SWAT course.
5.10 �� Required Course Topics
Required topics are identified in Regulation 1084.

The initial tactical medicine course shall consist of the following topics, skills, and
tactical medical scenarios [see next page]. Specific required course topics are
described in detail in Section 6.0.
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tactical medicine
Required Course Topics

80-Hour 40-Hour
Course Course
Module Course Topic (Full) (Alternate)
ADMINISTRATIVE
1 Course Administration and Safety 1 1
MEDICAL
2 Introduction to Tactical Medicine 2 2
3 Tactical Medical Equipment 1 1
4 Operational Casualty Care / Tactical Casualty Care 2 2
5 Hemorrhage Control and Hemostatic Techniques and Dressings 1 1
6 Medical Aspects of Distraction Devices 1 1
7 Medical Aspects of Clandestine Drug Labs 1 1
8 Medical Aspects of Wound Ballistics 1 1
9 Team Health Management and Combat Physiology 1 1
10 Medical Management of K-9 Emergencies 1 *
11 Medical Threat Assessment and Barricade Medicine 1 1
12 Pediatric Trauma Management Considerations in the Tactical Environment 1 1
13 Pain Management 1 1
14 Advanced Airway Management in the Tactical Environment 1 1
15 Environmental Injuries in the Tactical Environment 1 1
16 WMD Biological Weapons I 1 *
17 WMD Biological Weapons II 1 *
18 WMD Chemical Weapons Nerve Agents and Toxins 1 *
19 WMD Chemical Weapons Vesicants and Irritants 1 *
20 WMD Nuclear and Radiation Injuries 1 *
21 Medical Management of Blast Injuries in the Tactical Environment 1 1
22 CBRNE Environments 1 *
23 Medical Aspects of Chemical Agents 1 1
24 Special Operations Aeromedical Evacuation 1 *
25 Medical Issues of Less Lethal Weapons 1 1
26 Basic Tactical Medical Skills Lab 3 3
27 Advanced Tactical Medical Airway Skills Lab 3 3
28 ICS, Multi-casualty and Triage Problem Solving in a Tactical Environment 1 1
29 Low Light Medical Assessment and Treatment 1 1
*Topic is NOT required for the 40-hour course. continues
POST and EMSA 23

Required Course Topics continued
80-Hour 40-Hour
Course Course
Module Course Topic (Full) (Alternate)
TACTICAL
30 Tactical Equipment 1 *
31 Tactical Team Concepts and Planning 2 *
32 Forensics and Evidence Preservation 1 *
33 Explosive Entry Techniques 1 *
34 Disguised Weapons and Street Survival 1 *
TACTICAL INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM MOVEMENT

35 Team Movement Exercises 2 *
36 Covert Team Movement Techniques 2 *
37 Dynamic Clearing Techniques and Team Movement 2 *
TACTICAL FIREARMS AND RANGE

38 Introduction to Tactical Firearms: 16 *
a) Tactical Pistol –
b) Submachine Gun/Shoulder Fired Weapons –
c) Low Light Techniques –
REALITY-BASED SCENARIO TRAINING
39 Tactical Medical Scenario, Reality-Based Training 9 9
a) Basic Tactical Medical Scenarios – –
b) Advanced Tactical Medical Scenarios – –
c) Low Light Tactical Medical Scenarios – –
COMPETENCY TESTING
40 Tactical Medical Scenarios 3 *
41 Mid-Course Written Examination 1 *
42 Final Written Examination 1 1
43 Tactical Medicine Scenario Evaluation and Testing 3 3
TOTAL COURSE HOURS 80 40
*Topic is NOT required for the 40-hour course.
24
tactical medicine
5.11 �� Required Testing

(a) Each approved tactical program shall include periodic and final competency-
based examinations to test the knowledge and skills specified in these Guidelines, and
shall include:
(1) A final written competency examination,
(2) A final Skills competency examination, consisting of the minimum

psychomotor skills identified in the Guidelines,
(3) A final tactical medicine scenario examination. The tactical medicine

scenario examination shall include patient contacts wherein a patient
assessment and other tactical medicine skills are performed.
(b) Satisfactory performance in these written, skills, and scenario examinations

shall be demonstrated for successful completion of the course. Satisfactory
performance shall be determined by pre-established standards approved by POST and
EMSA.
5.12 �� Course Completion Record

(a) An approved tactical medicine training program provider shall issue a tamper
resistant course completion certificate to each person who has successfully completed
all of the requirements of the tactical medicine course, or an approved refresher
course.
(b) The course completion record shall contain the following:
(1) The name of the individual.
(2) The date of course completion.
(3) Type of tactical medicine course completed (i.e., Initial or refresher), and
the number of hours completed.
(4) The signature of the program director.
(5) The signature of the tactical director.
(6) The name and location of the training program issuing the record.
(c) This course completion record is valid to apply for certification for a
maximum of two years from the course completion date and shall be recognized
statewide.
(d) The name and address of each person receiving a course completion
record and the date of course completion shall be reported in writing to POST
within fifteen days of course completion using the POST Course Roster Form
2-111 as required by Regulation 1022.
POST and EMSA 25

Intentionally Blank
26
tactical medicine
Tactical Medicine Required Course

6.0 Content Description
6.1 �� The following pages provide the required topics as a detailed course content
description as noted in Section 5.10. The minimum hours for each topic are
estimates of the time that will be required to complete that topical section.
6.2 �� The topics identified in Section 6 have been approved by the Department of
Homeland Security (DHS), and the course is POST-certified and approved by the
Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA).
6.3 �� Required topics are also identified in Regulation 1084.
POST and EMSA 27

6. Tactical Medicine Required Course Content Description
TACTICAL MEDICINE COURSE

Course Description 80-Hour 40-Hour
1. Course Administration and Safety 1 1

A. Student will complete course documentation in the following areas:
n POST Course Registration
n California Emergency Medical Services Authority / Local EMS
Agency CE Administrative matters
B. Student will demonstrate competency in Safety in the following areas:
n Minimum safety requirements
n Reality-based safety
n Force-on-force safety
n Range safety
2. Introduction to Tactical Medicine 2 2

n Historical development of tactical medicine
n Tactical medicine training program goals
n Roles and responsibilities of the tactical medic
n Operational standards
n Team structure and function
n Problems facing tactical teams
n Injuries and illnesses common to tactical operation
n Uncommon but deadly conditions in the tactical environment
n Accessibility and civilian EMS interface
n Legal considerations
n Operational skills
3. Tactical Medical Equipment 1 1

n Design and construction features
n Load bearing packs
n Backpack designs
n Trauma packs
n Urban carry cases
n Tactical medical utility vests
n Self help kits
n Flexible litter kits
n Tactical extraction equipment
n Belt systems
n Specialty tactical medical gear
28
tactical medicine

4. Operational Casualty Care / Tactical Casualty Care 2 2

n Tactical Combat Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model
n Basic Wound Management
n Situation assessment
n Patient prioritization
n Victim extraction
n Point of relative safety
n Airway management
n C-Spine considerations
n Field assessment and hemorrhage control
n Shock recognition and management
n Provisions for evacuation and transport
n Advanced Wound Management
n Fracture recognition and management
n Gunshot wound management
n Management of burns in the field
n Chest wound recognition and management
n Open chest wound recognition and management
n Hemothorax and pneumothorax recognition and management
n Abdominal injuries recognition and management
n Extremity injuries recognition and management
n Soft tissue injuries
5. Hemorrhage Control and Hemostatic Techniques and Dressings 1 1

n Concepts and principals of hemorrhage control
n Quantifying blood loss
n Signs and symptoms of shock
n Hemorrhage control techniques
n Hemostatic agent selection and application
n Tourniquet use and application
6. Medical Aspects of Distraction Devices 1 1

n Purpose and definition of distraction devices
n Correct and incorrect terminology
n Psychological effects
n Physiological effects
n Medical significance
n Safety concerns
Continues
POST and EMSA 29


n Panic and fear responses

n Effects on team and possible injuries
n Deployment options
n Immediate action drills
7. Medical Aspects of Clandestine Drug Labs 1 1

n Health and safety concerns
n Hazard identification
n Activity patterns
n Designer drugs
n Exposure risks/lab conditions
n Signs and symptoms of chemical exposure
n Response actions and procedures
n On-scene medical actions
n Personal safety protection
8. Medical Aspects of Wound Ballistics 1 1

n Bullet types
n Temporary and permanent cavity
n High velocity injuries
n Low velocity injuries
n Scatter patterns
n Shotgun injury patterns
n Non-fragmenting high velocity injuries
n Wound patterns
n Gunshot wound myths
n Entrance vs. exit wounds
9. Team Health Management and Combat Physiology 1 1

n Preventive evaluation and education
n Mental health issues in law enforcement
n Incident debriefing and stress management
n Substance abuse
n Aggressive preventive health care
n Cardiovascular fitness
n Proper nutrition
n Health screening techniques
n Vitamins and minerals
30
tactical medicine

n Dangers of steroid use

n Lifestyle concerns
n Combat Physiology
n Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcal Infections (MRSA)
10. Medical Management of K-9 Emergencies 1 *

n Handling an injured canine
n Canine airway management
n Canine CPR
n Canine shock and field interventions
n Canine wound and hemorrhage field management
n Canine fracture recognition and field management
n Smoke inhalation recognition and field management
n Canine hyperthermia and hypothermia management
n Canine poisoning field recognition and management
n Transporting an injured K-9
11. Medical Threat Assessment and Barricade Medicine 1 1

n Planning advantages
n Operational risk assessment
n Mission operational security
n Hazardous material threats
n MTA resources
n Biological threats
n Data transfer
n Information prioritization
12. Pediatric Trauma Management Considerations in the Tactical 1 1

Environment
n Causes of pediatric death
n Mechanisms of injury
n Hemorrhage control techniques
n Primary survey
n Airway differences
n Shock recognition and management
n IV access techniques
n Fluid therapy
n Secondary survey
n Pediatric trauma center considerations
*Topic is NOT required for the 40-hour course. Continues
POST and EMSA 31


13. Pain Management 1 1

n Pain control
n Topical agents
n Oral agents
n Injectable agents
n Injection techniques
n Nerve block techniques
n Narcotic options
n Reversal agents
n Anti-emetics
n Conscious sedation options
n Benzodiazepines
n Induction agents
n Rapid sequence intubation drugs
14. Advanced Airway Management in the Tactical Environment 1 1

n Hostile environment
n Cover and concealment
n Light discipline
n Weight and space constraints
n Hot zone issues
n Warm zone issues
n Cold zone issues
n Field rapid sequence intubation
n Post intubation care
15. Environmental Injuries in the Tactical Environment 1 1

n Hyperthermia recognition and management
n Hypothermia recognition and management
n Snake bite management
n Spider bite management
n Scorpion bite management
n Hymenoptera sting management
n Anaphylaxis management
n Poisonous plants recognition and management
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tactical medicine

16. WMD Biological Weapons – Part 1 1 *

n Characteristics of effective biological weapons
n Anthrax epidemiology and clinical features
n Anthrax treatment
n Plague epidemiology and clinical features
n Plague treatment
n Botulism epidemiology and clinical features
n Botulism treatment
17. WMD Biological Weapons – Part 2 1 *

n Tularemia epidemiology and clinical features
n Tularemia treatment
n Smallpox epidemiology and clinical features
n Smallpox treatment
n Smallpox vaccination
n Smallpox vaccination contraindications
n Vaccine complications
n Hemorrhagic fever viruses epidemiology and clinical features
n Hemorrhagic fever viruses treatment
18. WMD Chemical Weapons Nerve Agents and Toxins 1 *

n Neurotransmitter physiology
n Pre- and post-ganglionic synapses
n Sympathetic synapses
n Neuromuscular junction
n Nerve agent physiology
n Nerve agent diagnosis
n Nerve agent treatment
n Ricin pathophysiology
19. WMD Chemical Weapons Vesicants and Irritants Recognition and 1 *

Management
n Vesicant and irritant agents
n Mustard mechanism of action
n Mustard characteristics
n Vesicant signs and symptoms
n Lewisite recognition and treatment
n Phosgene recognition and treatment
n Chlorine recognition and treatment
n Decontamination issues
POST and EMSA 33


20. WMD Nuclear and Radiation Injuries 1 *

n Ionizing radiation
n Non-ionizing radiation
n Basic physics
n Nuclear weapons
n Acute radiation syndrome
n Prodromal and latent phase
n Manifest illness phase
n Recovery or death phase
n Triage and treatment decision-making
21. Medical Management of Blast Injuries 1 1

n Explosion physics
n Overpressure mechanics
n Shock wave components
n Primary blast injury (PBI)
n Blast lung pathophysiology
n Arterial air embolus (AAE)
n Primary blast injuries
n Secondary blast injuries
n Tertiary blast injuries
n Suicide bomber issues
22. Chemical, Biologic, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive 1 *

Environments
n Scene safety
n Initial assessment
n Personal protective gear and equipment
n Perimeter security
n Containment
n Evacuation of casualties
n Agent identification
n Injury assessment
23. Medical Aspects of Chemical Agents in the Tactical Environment 1 1

n Purpose and Deployment Options
n Indications for use
n Delivery systems
n Effects of exposure
34
tactical medicine

n Lethal concentration computation

n Chemical agent exposure field management
n Principles of field denomination
n Site control and containment
24. Special Operations Aero-Medical Evacuation 1 *

n Operational considerations
n Logistical issues
n Stresses of flight
n Flight physiology
n Indications for transport
n Packaging for transport
n Landing zone size requirements
n Night operations
n Operational and load calculations
n Personal safety issues
25. Medical Aspects of Less Lethal Weapons 1 1

n Purpose and deployment of duty aerosols
n Tactical deployment procedures
n Use of force options
n Direct fire munitions
n Skip fire munitions
n Multi-launcher – 37 mm and 40 mm
n Impact munitions
n Projectiles
n Beanbags / Sting balls
n Injury patterns
26. Basic Tactical Medical Skills Lab 3 3

n Safety and personal protective equipment
n Tactical assessment and treatment / TC2
n Wound and hemorrhage control / Tourniquet application
n Basic ventilation and airway management
n IV and saline lock insertion
n Medication administration
n Cardiac and circulatory support – AED / CPR
n Patient extraction and evacuation
POST and EMSA 35


27. Advanced Tactical Medical Airway Management Skills Lab 3 3

n Basic Procedures and techniques
n Oral Endotracheal Intubation
n Nasotracheal Intubation
n Multi-lumen esophageal-tracheal airway techniques
n Lightwand techniques
n LMA techniques
n Needle cricothyroidostomy
n Surgical cricothyroidotomy
n Retrograde intubation
n Digital intubation
n Needle thoracostomy
28. Incident Command System, Multi-Casualty and Triage Problem 1 1

Solving in a Tactical Environment
n Incident Command System (ICS)
n California Standardized Emergency Management System
n National Incident Management System / National Response
Framework
n Triage principles
n START triage
n Multi-casualty incidents
n Role of triage, treatment, and transportation in field environment
29. Low Light Medical Assessment and Treatment 1 1

n Language and physics of light
n Vision physiology
n Battery basics
n LEDs
n Reflectors and Lenses
n Using hand held flashlights
n Weapon light attachments
n Movement with lights
n Low light environments medical assessment
30. Tactical Equipment 1 *

n Tactical uniforms
n Weapons systems
n Ammunition selection
n Body armor
36
tactical medicine

n Communication equipment
n Illumination tools
n Entry tools
n Breaching equipment
n Personal gear
31. Tactical Team Concepts and Planning 2 *

n Team purpose
n Team objectives
n Team responsibilities
n Team member selection process
n Team operational procedures
n Noise discipline
n Cover and concealment
n Team deployment and negotiation procedures
n Negotiation issues
n Medical threat assessment
n Hierarchy of threats
32. Forensics and Evidence Preservation 1 *

n Tactical medic responsibilities
n Crime scene awareness
n Sources of evidence
n Evidence collection
n Chain of custody
n Search and seizure
n Documentation
n Clothing considerations
n On-scene legal considerations
33. Explosive Entry Techniques 1 *

n Purpose and function
n Evolution of explosive breaching methods
n Alternative breaching methods
n Breaching explosives types
n Shock tube priming systems
n Principles of cut, push, and blast
n Charge construction and selection
n Charge calculations
POST and EMSA 37


n Breaching hazards
n Target analysis
n Documentation and liability
34. Disguised Weapons and Street Survival 1 *

n Concealment techniques
n Edged weapons
n Pocket pistols
n Failure to search
n Pen knives
n Pen guns
n Disguised weapons
n Unconventional weapons
n Survival issues
n Evasive techniques
35. Team Movement Exercises 2 *

n Approaches
n Initial entry
n Stairs – 1 and 2 man
n Stairs – 1 and 2 man with shields
n Window entry / Gun port
n Slow and deliberate search
n Use of shield as cover
n Corners and angles
n Movement to contact
n Threat assessment
n Shield man shooting
36. Covert Team Movement Techniques 2 *

n Definition of covert movement
n Techniques of searching
n Approach, cover, and concealment
n Teamwork concepts
n Fundamentals of building clearing
n Teamwork concepts
n Methods for searching hallways
n Methods for searching stairways
n Methods for searching open areas
38
tactical medicine

n Methods for searching multiple rooms

n Methods for searching warehouses
n Techniques in the use of ballistic shields
n Techniques using video equipment
37. Dynamic Clearing Techniques and Team Movement 2 *

n Immediate threat concept
n Speed, surprise, and shock action
n Room entry and movement
n Dealing with multiple threats
n Clearing open areas
n Movement in hallways
n Movement in stairways
n Tactical use of ladders
n Clearing multiple rooms
n Apprehension of unknowns and suspects
38. Introduction to Tactical Firearms 16 *

A. The student will demonstrate competency in Principles and Concepts of
Tactical Pistol the following areas:
n Nomenclature
n Ammunition selection
n Sight alignment
n Stance
n Grip
n Control motion
n Draw
n Sight picture
n Load and unload
n Trigger control
B. The student will demonstrate competency in Operational Use of
Shoulder-fired Tactical Weapons in the following areas:
n Variations of weapons systems used
n Nomenclature
n Stance
n Grip
n Ready / Carry positions
n Load and unload
POST and EMSA 39


n Trigger control
n Front sight
n Safety / Selector
n Shooting positions
C. The student will demonstrate competency in Range Exercises with

Tactical Pistol in the following areas:
n Controlled pairs
n Double taps
n Failure drill
n Shooting behind a barricade
n Firing on the move
n Multiple target engagement
n Prone firing techniques
n 3-yard line course of fire
D. The student will demonstrate competency in Range Exercises with

Shoulder-fired Tactical Weapons in the following areas:
n Controlled pairs
n Double taps
n Failure drill
n Shooting behind a barricade
n Firing on the move
n Multiple targets
n Prone firing
E. The student will demonstrate competency in the Principles of low light

shooting in the following areas:
n Lighting tools review
n Entry techniques
n Fundamental tactical concepts
n Using hand-held flashlight with firearms
n Target identification
n Low light engagements
n Target illumination techniques
40
tactical medicine

n Single suspect
n Multiple suspects
n Conflict resolution
39. Tactical Medical Scenario, Reality-based Training 9 9
A. Module A – Each student will demonstrate competency as a tactical

medicine provider by participating in multiple tactical and medical
scenarios using the POST/EMSA Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and
Treatment Model (TCCC)
B. Module B – Each student will demonstrate competency as a tactical

scenarios using the POST/EMSA Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and
Treatment Model (TCCC)
C. Module B – Each student will demonstrate competency as a tactical

low light scenarios using the POST/EMSA Tactical Casualty Care
Assessment and Treatment Model (TCCC)
D. Tactical and Medical scenario training components used in Modules A

and B consist of, but are not limited to, the following:
n Tactical scenario components

• High risk warrant service
• Barricaded subject(s)
• Hostage rescue
• Active shooter(s)
n Medical components
• Airway management
• Treatment of hemorrhage
• Chest trauma
• Nerve agent exposure
• Clandestine lab exposure
• Extremity/facial/neck injuries and penetrating wounds
• Blast injuries
• Gunshot wounds
• Mass casualty incident (MCI) response/treatment
• Extraction techniques
Continues
POST and EMSA 41


40. Tactical Medical Scenario 3 *
The student will demonstrate competency in six Multiple Simulated tactical

situations or scenarios in the following Basic Tactical Medical simulated areas
using the Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model.
41. Mid-Course Written Examination 1 *
The student will demonstrate competency in a written examination designed

to test cognitive abilities over the first portion of tactical medicine course.
42. Final Written Competency Examination 1 1
The student will demonstrate competency by completing a written

examination designed to test cognitive abilities from the entire tactical
medicine course.
43. Tactical Medicine Scenario Evaluation and Testing 3 3
The student will demonstrate competency in six Multiple Simulated tactical

situations or scenarios in advanced tactical medical simulated areas using
the Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model.
NOT required for the 40-hour course.

*Topic is
42
tactical medicine
7.0 Tactical Medicine Clinical

Core Competencies – Psychomotor
7.1 �� Psychomotor Skills Competencies
The skills of the tactical medical provider are perishable and should be developed
and practiced as well as maintained by meaningful ongoing training exercises
and an academic educational training program. Tactical medical team personnel
should maintain and demonstrate these proficiencies by attending a POST-
certified and EMSA-approved tactical medicine update or refresher training
program every two years.
7.2 �� Psychomotor Skills List

The following nine Skills Stations should be used to ensure Tactical Medicine
Psychomotor Core Competencies during Training and Testing.
POST and EMSA 43

7. Tactical Medicine Clinical Core Competencies – Psychomotor
1. Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

n Body substance isolation – gloves, mask (N95 minimum), eyewear
n Tactical equipment
n Gas mask
2. Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model

n Evaluate single/multiple victims (tactical combat casualty care)
n Ongoing patient management
n Shock recognition and treatment
n Regular reassessment (monitoring)
3. Basic Airway and Ventilation Techniques

n Head tilt / Chin lift
n Rescue positioning
n Nasopharyngeal airway
n Chest seal for open chest wound
n Mouth-valve mask / Bag-valve mask
n Manual suction device
4. Advanced Airway and Ventilation Techniques*

n Needle thoracostomy
n Needle cricothroidotomy
n Oral endotracheal intubation
n Surgical airway techniques
n Perilaryngeal airway adjunct device
n Other airway adjuncts
5. Hemorrhage Control*
n Direct pressure
n Inflow compression
n Tourniquet application and use
n Hemostatic agent application
6. Wound Management
n Trauma dressing application
n Lacerations
n Ocular injuries
n Open chest wounds
n Burns / Blast injuries
* If applicable within Authorized Scope of Practice based upon current license or certification.
44
tactical medicine
7. Intravenous Access Techniques*

n IV Insertion
n Saline Lock
n Intraosseous Placement
n Fluid Administration strategies and techniques
8. Medication Administration Techniques*

n Nerve Agent antidote
n Epinephrine for injection
n Intra-muscular injection site selection
9. Patient Extraction and Evacuation

n Dragging Techniques
n Soft Litter
n Manual Carry
n Other Methods
n Civilian/EMS Interface – transfer of care
7.3 �� Evaluation Form for Psychomotor Skills

Instructors should utilize standard forms for the individual student evaluation of
psychomotor skills competency testing.
The identified psychomotor skills may be evaluated individually during skills
competency testing and as part of a simulation requiring demonstration and
evaluation of multiple skills.
* If applicable within Authorized Scope of Practice based upon current license or certification.
POST and EMSA 45

Intentionally Blank
46
tactical medicine
8.0 Tactical Medicine Scenarios

8.1 �� Tactical Medical Scenario Formulation
A scenario that is developed for use in a simulated tactical environment should
require students to perform specific tasks that would be required of tactical
emergency medical personnel while operating in a tactical environment or
response to a critical incident.
The scenarios should include the ability to assess a student’s problem solving
and decision-making and the ability to analyze situations and solve problems
in a timely manner; using verbal or physical skills to determine the appropriate
solutions; demonstrations of situational and tactical awareness and appropriate
responses; the effective use of verbal and non-verbal communication skills; and
the ability to maintain self-control in making timely, rational decisions in stressful
tactical and emergency situations.
POST and EMSA 47

8. Tactical Medicine Scenarios
The student shall practice multiple, simulated tactical situations or scenarios in

the Tactical Medical content areas using the Tactical Casualty Care Assessment
and Treatment Model on next page.
8.2 �� Scenario Components and Medical Conditions

The scenarios shall minimally evaluate the student’s ability to perform specific
tasks while operating in a simulated tactical environment. Each scenario shall
include a tactical component and one or more medical conditions. Tactical
components and medical conditions are identified on the following page.
8.3 �� Evaluation Forms

Instructors should utilize standard evaluation forms for the standardized review
of tactical medical scenario curriculum. A sample Tactical Medical Scenario
Evaluation Form is provided at the end of this section.
48
tactical medicine
Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model – Conditions and Components
Tactical Scenario Components
Warrant Barricaded Hostage Active
Tactical Scenario Medical Conditions Service Subject Rescue Shooter
External bleeding
Gunshot wound (penetrating chest)
Gunshot wound (face and neck)
Gunshot wound (abdominal)
MCI / Triage
Drug / Clandestine lab
Chemical / Gas
Heat casualties
Extremity fractures
Explosion injury
Burns
Nerve / Organophosphate Exposure
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Shock
Seizure / PCP exposure
Pediatric trauma
Pediatric respiratory arrest
Ocular injury
Femur fracture (long bone FX)
Adult respiratory arrest
Anaphylactic shock
Snake bite
Officer down (unknown cause)
Self-inflicted gunshot wound to head
Casualty evacuation and ambulance /

Air ambulance turnover
Special problems
POST and EMSA 49

tactical medicine
Tactical Medical Scenario Evaluation Form – SAMPLE ONLY
STUDENT: Date:
TACTICAL Medical
INSTRUCTOR: Instructor:
Tactical Objectives: MEDICal Objectives:

n Team Movement n Medical Planning and Threat Assessment
• Rear Guard n Multiple Casualties
• Fatal Funnel n Tactical Casualty Care Model
• 360-degree Coverage
n Penetrating Trauma
• Stay Off Walls
• Tourniquet Use
• Noise Discipline
• Face and Neck Trauma
• Contact
n Airway and Breathing
• Break Contact
• Intubation
– Protecting patient
• Ventilatory Support
– Extrication
• Tension PTX
• Peels
• Surgical Airway
• Movement Speed
n Circulation and Hemorrhage Control
– Covert
n Disability and Exposure
– Warrant
– Hostage rescue n Communication with Team Leader
• Hall Boss n Packaging and Extraction
• Point / Trailer n Medication Selection
• Two-man Elements n Pediactric Issues
• Immediate Threat n Blast
n Hierarchy of Threats n K9
n Low Light n Environmental
• Light Discipline • Animal Threats
• Use of Light
n Combat Physiology
• Backlighting
n Orthopedics
n Distraction Device
n Nukes
n Use of Force / Less Lethal
n Chemical
n Active Shooter
n Biologic
n Communication n EDPs (5150)
n Situational Awareness n Less Lethal Injuries
• EOD Awareness
n Medical Issue Unrelated to Trauma
• Booby Traps
• Asthma
• Evidence Preservation
• MI
n Perimeter Control • AMS
n Weapons Handling • Psychiatric
• Laser Rule • Drugs
• Hard Cover vs. Concealment • Excited Delirium
• OB
n Calling Appropriate Transport
n Receiving Hospital Notification
POST and EMSA 50

tactical medicine
9.0 Tactical Medicine

Final Competency Testing
9.1 �� Tactical Medicine Course – Final Scenario Competency Testing
The student shall demonstrate competency in six (6) tactical situations or
scenarios in the following Tactical Medical simulated areas using the Tactical
Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model (TCCC).
n Tactical Components
– High risk warrant service
– Barricaded subject(s)
– Hostage rescue
– Active shooter(s)
n Medical Components
– Airway management
– Bleeding/hemorrhage control
POST and EMSA 51

9. Tactical Medicine Final Competency Testing
– Chest trauma
– Nerve agent exposure
– Clandestine lab chemical exposure
– Extremity/facial/neck injuries and penetrating wounds
– Blast injuries
– Gunshot wounds
– Mass casualty incident (MCI) response/treatment
– Extraction techniques
9.2 �� Testing Forms

Instructors should utilize standard forms for the individual student evaluation
of final tactical medical competency testing using the tactical casualty care
assessment and treatment model. A sample testing/examination form is included.
52
tactical medicine
Tactical Casualty Care

10.0 Assessment and Treatment Model
10.1 �� Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model
The tactical casualty care assessment and treatment model, as presented in these
guidelines, represents one potential approach to medical care in a civilian tactical
environment. Determination of treatment priorities and modalities is best guided
by local medical direction and the licensure or certification of the emergency
medical personnel involved in the tactical response.
Law enforcement special operations, although different from military operations,
is still performed in three phases. The first phase is situational awareness and
scene safety, the second phase is tactical field care, and the third phase is
extraction, evacuation, and transport.
POST and EMSA 53

The current law enforcement Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment
Model is based upon the military Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)
Committee recommendations and modified for civilian application. Periodic
updates to this model based upon current medical practice should be expected
and utilized. The table on the following page contains current TCCC information
as of February 2009.
54
tactical medicine
Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model - PHASES I, II, AND III
PHASE I – Basic Management Plan for Care, Situational Awareness, and Scene Safety
1. Take hard cover
2. Determine if patient is alive or dead.
3. Direct patient to move to cover and apply self-aid if able and try to keep the patient from sustaining
additional wounds.
4. Airway management is generally best deferred until the Tactical Field Care phase.
5. Stop life-threatening external hemorrhage, using appropriate PPE, if tactically feasible.

a. Use Emergency Trauma Dressing.
b. Use a tourniquet for hemorrhage that is anatomically amenable to tourniquet application.
c. For hemorrhage that cannot be controlled with a tourniquet, apply hemostatic agent.
6. Communicate with the patient if possible in order to encourage and reassure.
7. Extract patient from unsafe area (to include using a soft litter as needed).
► Call for tactical evacuation (ground or air ambulance).
PHASE II – Basic Management Plan for Assessment, Evaluation, and Tactical Field Care
1. Determine level of responsiveness.

a. Use emergency trauma dressing.
b. Patients with an altered mental status should be disarmed immediately.
2. Airway management
a. Unconscious patient without airway obstruction:
• Chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver.
• Nasopharyngeal airway.
• Place patient in recovery position.
b. Patient with airway obstruction or impending airway obstruction:
• Chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver.
• Nasopharyngeal airway.
• Place unconscious patient in recovery position.
• If previous measures are unsuccessful:
– King tube or combitube.
– Endotracheal nasotracheal intubation or blind nasotracheal intubation
– Cricothyroidotomy (needle or surgical)
continues
POST and EMSA 55

Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model continued
PHASE II – Basic Management Plan for Assessment, Evacuation, and Tactical Field Care continued
3. Breathing
a. Consider tension pneumothorax and decompress with needle thoracostomy if patient has torso
trauma and respiratory distress.
b. Sucking chest wounds should be treated by applying a chest seal or three-sided occlusive
dressing during expiration, then monitoring for development of a tension pneumothora.
4. Bleeding
a. Assess for unrecognized hemorrhage and control all sources of bleeding.
b. Assess for discontinuation of tourniquets once hemorrhage is definitively controlled by other
means. Before releasing any tourniquet on a patient who has been resuscitated for hemorrhagic
shock, ensure a positive response to resuscitation efforts (i.e., a peripheral pulse normal in
character and normal mentation if there is no traumatic brain injury (TBI).
5. Intravenous (IV) access

a. Start an 18-gauge IV (or saline lock) if indicated.
b. If resuscitation is required and IV access is not obtainable, use the intraosseous (IO) route.
6. Fluid resuscitation
a. Assess for hemorrhagic shock; altered mental status in the absence of head injury and weak or
absent peripheral pulses are the best field indicators of shock.
• If NOT in shock:
– No IV fluids necessary
– PO fluids permissible if conscious and can swallow
• If in shock:
– Normal saline (500-mL IV bolus)
– Repeat once after 15 minutes if still in shock
– Titrate to systolic BP of 90–100
• If in shock:
– Elevate lower extremities
• If a patient with traumatic brain injury (TBI) is unconscious and has no peripheral pulse,
resuscitate to restore the radial pulse.
7. Prevention of hypothermia
a. Minimize patient’s exposure to the elements. Keep protective gear on if feasible.
b. Replace wet clothing with dry if possible.
c. Apply Ready-Heat Blanket to torso.
d. Wrap in Blizzard Rescue Blanket.
e. Put Thermo-Lite Hypothermia Prevention System Cap on the patient’s head, under the helmet.
f. If above gear is not available, use dry blankets, poncho liners, sleeping bags, body bags, or
anything that will retain heat and keep the patient dry.
8. Monitoring
► Consider Pulse oximetry if available as an adjunct to clinical monitoring.
continues
56
tactical medicine
Tactical Casualty Care Assessment and Treatment Model continued
PHASE II – Basic Management Plan for Assessment, Evacuation, and Tactical Field Care continued
9. SECONDARY EXAM
a. Check for additional wounds or conditions.
b. Inspect and dress known wounds.
10. Treat Other Conditions as Necessary

a. Spinal immobilization.
b. Use of Mark I Kit for nerve agent exposure.
c. Use of EpiPen for anaphylactic reaction.
d. Treat for burns.
11. Penetrating eye trauma

a. If a penetrating eye injury is noted or suspected:
• Perform a rapid field test of visual acuity.
• Cover the eye with a rigid eye shield (NOT a pressure patch).
12. Splint fractures and recheck pulse.
13. Provide analgesia as needed.

a. Able to fight:
• Tylenol (650-mg bilayer caplet, 2 caplets)
b. Unable to fight:
• Obtain IV or IO access.
– Morphine sulfate (5–10 mg IV/IO)
- - Repeat dose every 10 minutes as needed to control severe pain.
- - Monitor for respiratory depression; have Naloxone available.
14. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED

► Resuscitation in the tactical environment for victims of blast or penetrating trauma who have no
pulse or respirations should only be treated when resources and conditions allow.
15. Communicate with the patient if possible.

► Encourage, reassure, and explain care.
16. Documentation
a. Document clinical assessments, treatments rendered, and changes in the patient’s status.
b. Forward this information with the patient to the next level of care.
PHASE III – Extraction, Evacuation, and Transportation
17. Prepare patient for TACTICAL EVACUATION

a. Move packaged patient to site where evacuation is anticipated.
b. Monitor airway, breathing, bleeding, and reevaluate the patient for shock.
POST and EMSA 57

Intentionally Blank
58
tactical medicine
Authorized Scope of Practice

Appendix A for EMS Personnel Reference
Authorized Scope of Practice for EMS Personnel
(California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 9)
Minimum Scope of Practice

EMT-I EMT-II PARAMEDIC
(1) Evaluate the ill and injured. Perform all EMT-I skills, plus: All EMT-I and IIs skills and
medications, plus:
(2) Render basic life support, (1) Perform pulmonary ventilation
rescue, and emergency medical by use of the esophageal airway. (1) Laryngoscope.
care to patients.
(2) Institute intravenous (IV) (2) Endotracheal (ET) intubation
(3) Obtain diagnostic signs to catheters, needle or other (adults, oral).
include, but not be limited to, cannulae (IV lines), in peripheral
(3) Glucose measuring.
the assessment of temperature, veins.
blood pressure, pulse and (4) Valsalva’s Maneuver.
(3) Administer intravenous glucose
respiration rates, level of (5) Needle thoracostomy.
solutions or isotonic balanced
consciousness, and pupil status.
salt solutions, including Ringer’s (6) Cricothyroidotomy
(4) Perform CPR, including the lactate solution.
use of mechanical adjuncts to (7) Nasogastric intubation (adult).
(4) Obtain venous blood samples
basic CPR. (8) Use glucose measuring device.
for laboratory analysis
(5) Use the following adjunctive (9) Utilize Valsalva maneuver.
(5) Apply and use pneumatic
airway breathing aids:
antishock trousers (10) Monitor thoracostomy tubes.
(A) oropharyngeal airway;
(6) Administer, using prepackaged (11) Monitor and adjust IV solutions
(B) nasopharyngeal airway; products where available, the containing potassium, equal to
following drugs: or less than 20 mEq/L.
(C) suction devices;
(A) sublingual nitroglycerine (12) Administer approved medica-
(D) basic oxygen delivery
preparations; tions by the following routes:
devices; and
(B) syrup of ipecac; intravenous, intramuscular,
(E) manual and mechanical subcutaneous, inhalation,
ventilating devices designed (C) lidocaine hydrochloride; transcutaneous, rectal, sublin-
for prehospital use. gual, endotracheal, oral, or
(D) atropine sulfate;
(6) Use various types of stretchers topical.
(E) sodium bicarbonate;
and body immobilization (13) Administer, using prepackaged
devices. (F) naloxone;
products when available, the
(7) Provide initial prehospital (G) furosemide; following medications:
emergency care of trauma. (H) epinephrine; and 1. 25% and 50% dextrose;
(8) Administer oral glucose or sugar 2. activated charcoal;
(I) 50% dextrose.
solution. 3. adenosine;
(7) Defibrillate a patient in 4. aerosolized or nebulized
(9) Extricate entrapped persons. ventricular fibrillation. beta-2 specific
(10) Perform field triage. (8) Cardiovert an unconscious bronchodilators;
patient in ventricular tachycardia. 5. aspirin;
Continues
POST and EMSA 59

Appendix A. Authorized Scope of Practice for EMS Personnel Reference
Authorized Scope of Practice for EMS Personnel continued
Minimum Scope of Practice

(11) Transport patients. 1. 25% and 50% dextrose;

(12) Set up for ALS procedures, 2. activated charcoal;
under the direction of an EMT-II 3. adenosine;
or Paramedic. 4. aerosolized or nebulized
beta-2 specific
(13) Perform AED when authorized
bronchodilators;
by an EMT AED service provider.
5. aspirin;
(14) Assist patients with the
6. atropine sulfate;
administration of physician
7. pralidoxime chloride;
prescribed devices, including
but not limited to, patient 8. calcium chloride;
operated medication pumps, 9. diazepam;
sublingual nitroglycerin, and 10. diphenhydramine
self-administered emergency hydrochloride;
medications, including epine- 11. dopamine hydrochloride;
phrine devices. 12. epinephrine;
13. furosemide;
14. glucagon;
15. midazolam;
16. lidocaine hydrochloride;
17. morphine sulfate;
18. naloxone hydrochloride;
19. nitroglycerin preparations,
except intravenous, unless
permitted under (c)(2)(A) of
this section;
20. sodium bicarbonate.
Notable Optional Skills (added at the local level)

Manual Defibrillation, under direct Endotracheal (ET) intubation Local EMS agencies may add
supervision of a paramedic. additional skills and medications if
Laryngoscope
approved by the EMS Authority.
Esophageal-tracheal airway device
Use glucose measuring device.
(combitube)
Gastric suction
Bronchodilators
Additional medications
Epi-pen
Establish IV access under direct
supervision of a paramedic.
Naloxone
Mark 1 Kit
Glucagon
Aspirin
Activated Charcoal
60
Appendix A. Authorized Scope of Practice for EMS Personnel Reference
u Public safety first aid and CPR trained individuals do not have a defined
scope of practice in regulations. Because there is such a wide range of training
available to public safety personnel, from a 15-hour first aid and CPR course
up to a 60-hour first responder course, public safety personnel who do not have
at least an EMT-I certification are limited to basic first aid or a scope of practice
approved by a LEMSA medical director which is dependent on the level of
training.
61
Intentionally Blank
62
tactical medicine
EMS Legal Authorities

Appendix B for EMS Personnel Reference
legal authorities for tactical medic standards
First Aid and CPR Training Standards for Public Safety Personnel
Health and Safety Code § 1797.182 Life guards and firefighters

§ 1797.183 Peace officers
Penal Code § 13518 First aid and CPR training requirement
California Code of Regulations Title 22 Division 9, Chapter 1.5

Topics and hours of training requirements
EMT-I
Health and Safety Code § 1797.170 Training and scope of practice

§ 1797.175 Continuing education standards
§ 1797.210 Certification by LEMSA medical director
§ 1797.214 Optional scope of practice
§ 1797.215 CPR renewal periods
§ 1797.216 Public safety certifying authorities
§ 1797.221 Trial study by LEMSA
§ 1798 LEMSA medical control
§ 1798.200 Violations for discipline
California Code of Regulations Title 22 Division 9, Chapter 2

Training, scope of practice, certification, and recertification
standards
EMT-II
Health and Safety Code §1797.171 Training and scope of practice

§ 1797.210 Certification by LEMSA medical director
§ 1797.215 CPR renewal periods
§ 1797.218 LEMSA authorization for EMT-II program
§ 1797.220 LEMSA policies and procedures for medical control
Continues
POST and EMSA 63

tactical medicine
legal authorities for tactical medic standards continued
EMT-II continued
Health and Safety Code § 1797.221 Trial study by LEMSA

continuedd

Training, scope of practice, certification, and recertification
standards
Paramedic
Health and Safety Code §1797.172 Training, scope of practice, licensure

§ 1797.174 Continuing education standards for paramedics
§ 1797.178 Must be affiliated with EMS system to practice
§ 1797.194 State licensure of paramedics
§ 1797.210 Paramedic fines
§ 1797.218 LEMSA authorization for paramedic program
§ 1797.221 Trial study by LEMSA
§ 1798.2 Medical direction from base hospital
§ 1798.3 Medical direction from alternate base station

Training, scope of practice, licensure, licensure renewal, and
accreditations
POST and EMSA 64

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POST2009EXE- 0390

Published July 2009

POST Publications Manager

Cover and publication designed and produced by

Photos courtesy of ISTM

n �������������������������������������������of the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) is to ensure quality

POST and EMSA i

POST and EMSA iii

Representatives of the following stakeholder groups participated in this project:

n California Ambulance Association (CAA)

POST Project Manager:

EMSA Project Manager:

POST and EMSA v

Significant progress, growth, and advancement in tactical medicine training

Additionally, the State of California Emergency Medical Services Authority

Questions concerning the core competencies and training recommendations may be

PAUL A. CAPPITELLI r. steven tharratt, md, mpvm

POST and EMSA vii

CHARTS, TABLES, AND FORMS

POST and EMSA ix

5.5 SWAT teams should incorporate medical emergency contingency planning

POST and EMSA 1

Additionally, a Basic SWAT Team Operational Component has been identified as

1.0 Definition of Tactical Medicine

1.1 ��������������������������������������� A comprehensive Tactical Medicine Operational Program that is developed by a

POST and EMSA 3

2.1 ��������������������������������������� Tactical Medicine Programs

(b) A law enforcement agency with a tactical medicine program should:

(1) Provide tactical emergency medical services, as necessary, to the law

POST and EMSA 5

(2) Utilize and maintain telecommunications, including communications with

(5) Be responsible for assessing the current knowledge of their tactical

(c) An agency establishing a tactical medicine program should develop and

(1) Tactical medical training required of medical support personnel, utilizing a

(2) Level of medical licensure or certification required by individual tactical

(3) Any additional medical training requirements as required by law or agency

(4) Deployment of tactical medical personnel pursuant to agency policy and

(5) Determination of peace officer status of tactical medical personnel

(6) Arming of tactical medical personnel

(e) No responding tactical unit shall advertise itself as providing paramedic

(g) Tactical Medicine operational programs should designate the following

(1) Tactical Medicine Program Director

At a minimum each tactical medicine program should have a program director

(2) Tactical Medicine Medical Director

A Tactical Medicine program should have a Medical Director, who shall be

(3) Personnel Trained in Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS)

Legal authority and proper training to carry a firearm is a prerequisite to arming

2.2 ��������������������������������������� Tactical Medicine Contingency Planning

2.2.2 ������������������Medical Contingency Planning. Medical Contingency Planning is the

POST and EMSA 7

2.2.3 ������������������Operational Support (TEMS). TEMS refers to Tactical Emergency Medical

2.2.4 ������������������Quality Improvement and Post Incident Analysis. Quality improvement is

2.2.5 ������������������Team Health Management. Team health management is a critical component

2.2.6 ������������������Training, Education, and Sustainability. Tactical medical team support

n Use of Medical Equipment and Applications

n Medical care decision-making in a tactical environment

Tactical medicine personnel and supervisors, managers, and directors should

2.2.7 ������������������Medical Equipment Acquisition and Maintenance. Tactical medical

n TEMS, Basic Life Support (BLS)

n TEMS, Advanced Life Support (ALS)

POST and EMSA 9

Tactical Medical Planning

3.2 ��������������������������������������� Medical Plan as a Resource

n ��of the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) is to ensure quality

1.1 �� A comprehensive Tactical Medicine Operational Program that is developed by a

2.1 �� Tactical Medicine Programs

2.2 �� Tactical Medicine Contingency Planning

2.2.2 ��Medical Contingency Planning. Medical Contingency Planning is the

2.2.3 ��Operational Support (TEMS). TEMS refers to Tactical Emergency Medical

2.2.4 ��Quality Improvement and Post Incident Analysis. Quality improvement is

2.2.5 ��Team Health Management. Team health management is a critical component

2.2.6 ��Training, Education, and Sustainability. Tactical medical team support

2.2.7 ��Medical Equipment Acquisition and Maintenance. Tactical medical

3.2 �� Medical Plan as a Resource

3.3 �� Medical Threat Assessment

3.4 �� Incorporation of Medical Threat Assessment

3.5 �� Medical Plan for Each Response

4.1 �� Individual Tactical Team Member

4.2 �� TEMS – Basic Life Support

4.3 �� TEMS – Advanced Life Support